Fire hazard due to electrical installations in modern multi-storey timber buildings

Currently one third of all fires are due to electrical fires. An relevant question that has been raised, at the latest since the introduction of DIN VDE 0100-420 in 2016 and the general demand for arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) in timber buildings, is whether the combustible construction represents an increased fire hazard in the case of electrical fires and whether timber buildings therefore require more special protection. Within the scope of the study presented in this article that question was investigated for modern multi-storey timber buildings. Combustible insulation materials were not part of the scope of the investigation. In the course of the investigation it could be proven that the risk of an occurrence of electrical fires within the construction is low and that the existing protective devices of a building installation already cover a part of possible defects. An electric arc was determined as the decisive impact scenario. In all tests carried out, self-extinguishing occurred. After evaluation of the tests, it was not possible to identify a need for AFDDs in standard buildings.